The Story of 19B

The only DHR 'B' Class ever to leave India

In 2002, Adrian Shooter, engineer, professional railwayman and at the time, Chairman of Chiltern Railways, purchased a special locomotive from the Hesston Museum in the USA. It was a Darjeeling 'B' Class, the only one to ever leave India. Its arrival back in the UK, the place of its birth, was the result of a series of connections and two special people prepared to dig deep into their own pockets in the interest of preservation and museums, for people to enjoy and learn for generations to come.

Since it was returned to full working order, it has proved that few engines are better suited to operating on the various 2ft gauge lines in the UK and Europe. She is greeted with great interest and excitement wherever she goes and, in the words of its regular fireman, “It has always been, and always will be, a privilege to work with her”.

Written and produced by David Charlesworth with technical assistance from David Churchill and Jeremy Davey, Passed Fireman (The Beeches). A5, 32pp plus 4pp cover. Full colour.